Environmental Sustainability Policy

Anne Shoemaker & Associates is committed to minimizing our environmental impact. We strive to operate sustainably and protect the environment in all aspects of our business. We support circularity in the following ways:  

  1. Consumption: We use recyclable or biodegradable materials and reusable cups/bottles whenever possible, and avoid single-use plastics
  2. Resource efficiency: We implement energy and water conservation measures, such as
    1. Energy-efficient equipment:
      1. We encourage contractors to use Energy Star-certified devices
      2. We promote the use of laptops instead of desktops, as they generally consume less energy
      3. We advise on configuring sleep and hibernation modes for computers
      4. We recommend using smart power strips to reduce standby power consumption
    2. Lighting:
      1. We encourage setting up workspaces near windows to take advantage of natural light, reducing artificial lighting needs
      2. We suggest replacing traditional bulbs with LED lights in home offices
    3. Thermostat settings:
      1. We provide guidelines for optimal thermostat settings to reduce heating/cooling energy use
    4. Green web hosting:
      1. We choose eco-friendly web hosting services for company websites and cloud storage
    5. Home energy audits:
      1. We encourage our stakeholders to conduct home energy audits
    6. Water-saving fixtures:
      1. We recommend low-flow faucet aerators and dual-flush toilets for home bathrooms
  3. Recycling and upcycling
    1. We recycle paper, plastic, and glass as a means of reducing office waste
    2. We find creative ways to repurpose or upcycle waste materials
  4. Sustainable sourcing
    1. We choose suppliers who use recycled materials or follow circular principles
    2. We opt for locally sourced materials to reduce transportation emissions
  5. Sharing economy
    1. We consider rental or leasing models instead of outright sales
    2. We collaborate with other businesses to share resources
  6. Digital solutions
    1. We reduce paper and ink use by digitalizing processes and documents
    2. We use video conferencing instead of travel for meetings, reducing transportation emissions
  7. Education
    1. We educate customers and employees about circular economy principles

We commit to regularly reviewing and improving our environmental practices, and to publishing an Impact Report annually. 

Virtual Office Environmental Stewardship Policy

Virtual Working Environment Standards

Anne Shoemaker & Associates recognizes that our distributed workforce operates primarily from home offices and remote locations. We are committed to supporting environmentally responsible practices in virtual work environments through the following measures:

Office Supply Procurement

  • Environmentally Preferred Vendors: All contractors and employees are provided with our Virtual Office Environmental Stewardship Implementation Guide (VOESIG), which includes a curated list of environmentally preferred vendors for office supplies.
  • Digital-First Approach: We prioritize digital solutions over physical supplies whenever possible

Home Office Energy Management

    • ENERGY STAR Equipment Recommendations: We provide recommendations for Energy Star-certified equipment and encourage the use of laptops over desktop computers
    • Power Management Optimization Guide: All team members receive guidelines for optimizing power settings, using smart power strips, and minimizing standby power consumption
    • Lighting Guidelines: We encourage positioning workstations near natural light sources and using LED lighting when artificial light is needed
  • Optimal Themostat Settings for Home Office Efficiency

Sustainable Work Practices

  • Paperless Operations: We maintain a digital-first policy, minimizing printing and encouraging electronic document management
  • Green Cloud Services: We prioritize cloud service providers with renewable energy commitments for file storage and collaboration tools
  • Virtual Meeting Guidelines: All meetings default to virtual formats unless in-person presence is essential

Resource Disposal & Recycling

  • Disposal Assistance: We offer guidance on the responsible disposal and recycling of electronic equipment

Measurement & Improvement

  • Impact Tracking: Team members are encouraged to track their home office energy usage and share conservation achievements
  • Continuous Improvement: We regularly update our preferred vendor list and environmental guidelines based on emerging best practices

This policy applies to all contractors, employees, and team members working in virtual environments, supporting our commitment to environmental sustainability regardless of work location.

Virtual Office Environmental Stewardship Implementation Guide

Office Supply Procurement

✓ Environmentally Preferred Vendors List

  • Local Options: Visit your locally-owned office supply store and look for products that prioritize sustainability.
  • Staples eco-ID – Staples tracks 50+ eco-friendly features across their entire assortment. They also affix products with specific eco features and certifications with an Eco-ID mark, making them easy to find in-store and online. Also, be sure to check out their arbon-neutral shipping options.
  • Office Depot GreenerOffice – If Office Depot is the best choice for you, check out their GreenerOffice™ assortment. This program includes thousands of high-quality, eco-conscious products with eco-attributes and eco-labels to help you reduce your environmental impact.
  • EcoEnclose is the leading innovator in sustainable packaging suppliers. Visit them for shipping materials. 

✓ Digital-First Procurement Guidelines

  • Replace paper and ink → digital notes on laptop or mobile device
  • Replace paper Post-It notes → digital desktop Post-It notes
  • Replace paper signatures → DocuSign, Adobe Sign
  • Replace paper invoices → digital invoices 

Energy Management Resources

✓ ENERGY STAR Equipment Recommendations

Products that earn the ENERGY STAR label meet strict energy-efficiency specifications set by the U.S. EPA helping you save energy and money while protecting the environment. Search for ENERGY STAR products here: energystar.gov/productfinder

Specific Home Office-Related Tips:

  • Review the Energy Star-certified laptops vs. desktop comparison sheet
  • Consider energy efficiency ratings and size recommendations
  • Printer recommendations are included in Energy Star database (if printing is unavoidable)
  • Search for eco-friendly home office lighting solutions (LED specifications)

✓ Power Management Optimization Guide

Optimizing Power Settings:

  • Windows Tip: Change to “Balanced” or “Power Saver” mode in Control Panel > Power Options. Set display to turn off after 10 minutes and computer to sleep after 30 minutes of inactivity
  • Mac Tip: Go to System Preferences > Energy Saver and enable “Put hard disks to sleep when possible” and set display sleep to 10-15 minutes
  • Monitor Tip: Reduce screen brightness to 70-80% – this can cut monitor energy use by 20% while maintaining comfortable visibility

Smart Power Strip Usage:

  • Master-Controlled Setup: Plug your computer into the “master” outlet and peripherals (monitor, speakers, printer) into controlled outlets – when the computer goes to sleep, peripherals automatically power down
  • Timer Feature: Use programmable outlets for equipment that doesn’t need to be on 24/7, like desk lamps or phone chargers – set them to turn off automatically at the end of the workday
  • Phantom Load Elimination: Identify devices that draw power when “off” (printers, speakers, coffee makers) and plug them into switched outlets to eliminate standby consumption

Minimizing Standby Power Consumption:

  • Unplug Rule: Unplug chargers when not in use – phone and laptop chargers can draw 0.1-4 watts continuously when plugged in but not charging
  • Power Down, Don’t Sleep: Fully shut down computers overnight and weekends rather than leaving in sleep mode – sleep mode still consumes 1-6 watts continuously
  • Router Management: If you have a separate home office router/modem, put it on a timer to power down during non-work hours if it won’t affect other household internet needs

✓ Lighting Guidelines

Workspace Positioning for Natural Light:

  • Side Lighting Rule: Position your desk perpendicular to windows with natural light coming from your non-dominant side (left side for right-handed people) to minimize glare on screens and documents
  • Distance Sweet Spot: Place workstation 3-5 feet from windows – close enough for good natural light but far enough to avoid glare and heat gain
  • Screen Angle Tip: Tilt computer screens slightly downward (10-20 degrees) when near windows to reduce reflection and glare from overhead lighting
  • Mirror Test: Use a small mirror placed on your screen – if you can see bright light sources (windows, bulbs) in the reflection, reposition either your screen or add window treatments

LED Bulb Specifications and Lumens Guide:

  • Office Task Lighting: Use 800-1100 lumens (equivalent to 60-75W incandescent) for general desk work – look for 2700K-3000K color temperature for warm, comfortable lighting
  • Computer Work: Choose 400-700 lumens for task lighting near screens to reduce eye strain – 4000K-5000K (cool white) works best for detailed work
  • Ambient Room Lighting: 200-400 lumens per lamp for background lighting – use 2700K warm white for comfortable atmosphere during video calls
  • Energy Savings Target: Replace any incandescent bulbs with LEDs using 75-80% less energy – a 60W incandescent replaced with a 9W LED saves $50+ annually

Timer and Motion Sensor Recommendations:

  • Bathroom/Storage Areas: Install motion sensors with 5-10 minute auto-shutoff for spaces you enter briefly – prevents lights being left on all day
  • Desk Lamp Timers: Use plug-in timers for desk lamps to automatically turn on 15 minutes before your workday starts and off 30 minutes after typical end time
  • Overhead Light Scheduling: Install programmable wall switches for overhead lighting with different schedules for workdays vs. weekends
  • Smart Bulb Alternative: Consider smart LED bulbs that can be programmed via smartphone apps for flexible scheduling without rewiring

Task vs. Ambient Lighting Efficiency Tips:

  • Layer Your Lighting: Use bright task lighting (desk lamp) only where you’re actively working, with dim ambient lighting for the rest of the room – saves 40-60% energy vs. lighting entire room brightly
  • 3-2-1 Rule: Use 3 lumens of task lighting for every 1 lumen of ambient lighting – focus brightness where you need it most
  • Directed Light Strategy: Choose desk lamps with adjustable heads/arms to direct light precisely on work areas rather than using overhead floods that light unused space
  • Video Call Lighting: Position one bright light source in front of you (ring light or desk lamp) during video calls instead of overhead room lighting – better appearance and 50% less energy use

✓ Optimal Thermostat Settings for Home Office Energy Efficiency:

  • Summer Cooling Guidelines: Set thermostat to 78°F (26°C) when working from home, 82°F (28°C) when away for 4+ hours – each degree higher saves 6-8% on cooling costs
  • Winter Heating Guidelines: Set to 68°F (20°C) during work hours, 65°F (18°C) at night or when away for 4+ hours – each degree lower saves 6-8% on heating costs
  • Programmable Schedule: Set thermostat to automatically adjust 30 minutes before start/end of workday to pre-condition space efficiently
  • Zone Control Strategy: If possible, heat/cool only home office area during work hours using space heaters/fans, set whole-house thermostat 3-5 degrees less favorable
  • Seasonal Transition Tips: Use natural ventilation during spring/fall – open windows when outdoor temperature is within 5°F of desired indoor temperature
  • Humidity Optimization: Maintain 30-50% humidity in winter (feels warmer, can lower thermostat 2-3°F), use dehumidifier in summer (feels cooler, can raise thermostat 2-3°F)
  • Smart Thermostat Features: Enable occupancy sensors, geofencing, and learning algorithms to automatically optimize settings based on work-from-home patterns

 

Sustainable Work Practices

✓ Digital-First Operations Toolkit

Green Cloud Services List:

  • Look into green cloud storage providers, such as Google Workspace (carbon neutral commitment), Microsoft 365 (renewable energy powered), Dropbox Business (carbon neutral storage), or your local/regional hosting providers with green energy. 
    • Anne Shoemaker & Associates uses Google Workspace. 

✓ Virtual Meeting Guidelines

Default Meeting Settings Configuration:

  • Zoom Settings: Set default to “Turn off my video when joining meeting” and “Mute my microphone when joining meeting” in Settings > Video/Audio – reduces bandwidth by 90% and energy consumption
  • Teams Configuration: Enable “Turn off my camera” and set quality to “Optimize for limited bandwidth” in Device Settings – can reduce energy use by 60-80% per meeting
  • Audio-First Rule: Default to audio-only for internal team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and 1-on-1s – reserve video for client presentations and first-time introductions

Screen Sharing Efficiency Tips:

  • Application Sharing: Share specific applications rather than the entire screen – reduces data transfer by 50-70% and protects privacy
  • Presentation Mode: Use “Presenter View” in PowerPoint/Google Slides rather than sharing full desktop – cleaner for participants and more efficient bandwidth use
  • Annotation Tools: Use built-in annotation tools instead of switching between applications during presentations – reduces system resource usage and meeting complexity
  • Pause When Not Active: Stop screen sharing immediately when not presenting rather than leaving it on during discussion – saves bandwidth and refocuses attention on speakers

Meeting Recording vs. Note-Taking Guidelines:

  • Recording Threshold: Record meetings only when 3+ people cannot attend live OR when content will be referenced multiple times – recordings use 10x more storage than notes
  • Cloud Storage Limit: Set auto-delete for recordings after 90 days unless specifically archived – reduces cloud storage energy consumption
  • Collaborative Notes Priority: Use shared Google Docs or Notion for real-time note-taking instead of recording for routine meetings – more searchable and energy-efficient
  • Hybrid Approach: For training sessions, record in segments (15-20 minutes max) rather than full sessions to make content more usable and reduce file sizes

Travel vs. Virtual Meeting Decision Matrix:

  • Distance Rule: Virtual default for any meeting where total participant travel exceeds 30 miles – saves average 20 lbs CO2 per person per 30-mile round trip
  • Meeting Purpose Criteria:
    • Virtual: Status updates, brainstorming, training, regular team meetings, vendor presentations
    • In-Person Consider: Contract signing, relationship building with new clients, team building events, complex negotiations requiring reading body language
  • Frequency Factor: If you meet with same people monthly or more, establish virtual as default with quarterly in-person options
  • Group Size Logic: Virtual for 4+ participants (coordination complexity increases carbon savings), in-person consideration for 2-3 people within 15 miles

 

Responsible Disposal Guide

✓ Responsible Disposal Guide

Specific Greensboro Area E-Waste Recycling Locations

Free Municipal Options:

  • Guilford County Household Hazardous Waste Center: 2750 Patterson Street, Greensboro, NC 27407 – Open Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, Saturday 8am-2pm – Accepts computers, televisions, cell phones, fax machines, all batteries, fluorescent bulbs

Commercial Certified Recyclers:

  • All Green Electronics Recycling: Local Greensboro headquarters offering certified ITAD services, secure data destruction, mobile hard drive shredding trucks
  • STS Electronic Recycling: EPA compliant, NIST compliant data destruction, serves businesses/medical facilities/schools, call 844-699-2913
  • Shred Ace: Local company offering computer and electronics recycling with secure data destruction services

Data Destruction Procedures Before Disposal:

DIY Data Wiping Steps:

  • Backup Important Data: Transfer any needed files to new device or cloud storage before beginning destruction process
  • Sign Out of All Accounts: Log out of Google, Microsoft, Apple, Dropbox, and all cloud services from the device
  • Perform Factory Reset: Use built-in reset options – Windows “Reset this PC”, Mac “Erase Mac”, or Linux disk wiping tools
  • Multiple Overwrite Passes: Use DBAN (Darik’s Boot and Nuke) or similar software to overwrite data 3-7 times with random patterns
  • Physical Verification: For highly sensitive data, physically remove hard drive and verify with certified recycler that DoD 5220.22-m standards are met

Professional Data Destruction Options:

  • Certificate of Destruction: Require written certification from recycler that data was destroyed to federal standards
  • Witnessed Destruction: On-site hard drive shredding services available in Greensboro area with mobile shredding trucks
  • Compliance Standards: Ensure the recycler meets NIST 800-88 guidelines for media sanitization

Donation Options for Working Equipment:

Local Organizations:

  • Greensboro Public Library: May accept working computers for public access programs
  • Guilford County Schools: Contact the technology department for equipment donation opportunities
  • United Way of Greater Greensboro: Can connect with local nonprofits needing technology
  • Goodwill Industries: Accepts working electronics for resale/job training programs

Preparation for Donation:

  • Functionality Test: Ensure device powers on, connects to the internet, and runs basic functions
  • Clean Installation: Wipe personal data and install a fresh operating system
  • Include Accessories: Provide power cords, mice, and keyboards when possible
  • Documentation: Provide any original software licenses that transfer with the equipment

Manufacturer Take-Back Program Information:

Major Manufacturer Programs (Free):

  • Apple: Free mail-in recycling for any computer/monitor (Mac or PC), iPhone, iPad – Call 877-712-2405 for prepaid shipping label
  • Dell: Dell Trade-In accepts Dell and non-Dell devices (computers, laptops, tablets) – Free shipping via FedEx, will recycle for free even if no trade-in value
  • HP: HP Planet Partners program for computer equipment, printing supplies, rechargeable batteries – Assessment for trade-in value or responsible recycling
  • Microsoft: Trade-in program for laptops, tablets, phones, game consoles with cash back options or free recycling
  • Best Buy: Free recycling program – up to 3 pieces per day at any store location, accepts any brand

Retailer Take-Back Programs:

  • Staples: Free recycling of any brand, any condition technology products at retail stores
  • Costco: Partnership with Gazelle for trade-in/recycling with Costco cash card payment

Certificate of Destruction/Recycling Documentation: Proper documentation protects your business from liability while demonstrating environmental stewardship and compliance with data protection regulations.

Required Documentation Elements: These certificates serve as legal proof that equipment was handled responsibly and sensitive data was securely destroyed according to industry standards.

  • Chain of Custody: Detailed tracking from pickup through final disposal
  • Data Destruction Certificate: Compliance with DoD 5220.22-m or NIST 800-88 standards
  • Environmental Compliance: Confirmation of responsible recycling, no export to developing countries
  • Material Recovery Report: Breakdown of materials recovered (metals, plastics, etc.)
  • Disposal Method: Specific processes used for non-recoverable components

Record Keeping Requirements: Systematic record keeping ensures you can demonstrate compliance during audits, support tax filings, and maintain accountability for environmental commitments.

  • Certificate Storage: Maintain certificates for a minimum of 7 years for tax/compliance purposes
  • Asset Tracking: Document serial numbers, disposal dates, and disposal methods
  • Cost Documentation: Track any fees paid or credits received for tax reporting
  • Compliance Verification: Annual review of recycler certifications (R2, e-Stewards, ISO 14001)

Diversity & Inclusion Policy

Our company is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We:

  1. Recruit, retain, and promote talent from all backgrounds.
  2. Provide equal opportunities for all employees.
  3. Cultivate an environment of respect and belonging.
  4. Prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind.
  5. Encourage diverse perspectives in decision-making.
  6. Regularly review and improve our D&I practices.

We believe diversity strengthens our team and enhances our business performance.

 

Supplier Code of Conduct

By working with us, our suppliers confirm that they are:

  1. Compliant with all local laws and regulations
  2. Following International Human Rights and Labor Standards
  3. Paying at a minimum, a recognized living wage to all of their workforce
  4. Working towards clear social and/or environmental commitments 

 

Supplier Diversity

Our company is committed to promoting diversity in our supply chain. Among other factors, we evaluate suppliers based on their commitment to advancing progressive environmental, social, and governance factors. We:

  1. Actively seek out and engage diverse suppliers.
  2. Where possible, source services from local, minority- and woman-owned suppliers.
  3. Ensure fair opportunities for diverse suppliers in our procurement process.
  4. Regularly review and set goals for supplier diversity.
  5. Provide support and feedback to help diverse suppliers grow.
  6. Track and report on our progress in supplier diversity.

We believe a diverse supplier base strengthens our business and supports our community.

Community Involvement Policy

Our company is committed to being a responsible and engaged member of our community. We:

  1. Support local charitable organizations through donations and volunteering.
  2. Encourage employees to participate in community service activities.
  3. Sponsor local events and initiatives that align with our values.
  4. Seek partnerships with other local businesses for mutual benefit.
  5. Regularly assess our community impact and areas for improvement.

We believe that by investing in our community, we contribute to its growth and our own success.

Company Citizenship Policy

Anne Shoemaker LLC recognizes that business success and social responsibility are interconnected. As a values-driven organization, we are committed to contributing positively to the communities in which we operate and to advancing practices that support social and environmental well-being, particularly, gender equity. 

 

This Company Citizenship Policy establishes the framework for our contributions, volunteering efforts, and future advocacy commitments.

 

Scope

This policy applies to all employees of Anne Shoemaker LLC, regardless of role, seniority, or geographic location.

 

Guiding Principles

Our approach to corporate citizenship is guided by the following principles:

  • Integrity and Responsibility: We act with integrity in all contributions, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Community Engagement: We support local organizations and initiatives that strengthen the community in which we operate and create meaningful social or environmental impact.
  • Gender Equity:  We prioritize actions and the support of organizations that have as their goal, the advancement of women in the workplace and through it, increased gender equity. 
  • Sustainability: We are committed to prioritizing actions that foster long-term benefits for people and the planet.
  • Non-partisanship: We do not make political donations.

 

Financial Contributions

  • Anne Shoemaker LLC will allocate a portion of annual profit toward charitable donations.
  • Contributions will be directed toward local, non-political, non-profit organizations that align with our mission and values.
  • Donations will be approved by leadership and reported annually to ensure transparency.

 

Volunteering Commitment

  • All employees are encouraged to participate in volunteer service.
  • Each employee is eligible to contribute at least 10 hours of paid volunteer time per calendar year to purpose-aligned community service, social impact, or environmental initiatives.
  • Employees may select volunteer activities of personal importance, subject to approval by their manager to ensure alignment with company values.
  • The company will support group volunteer initiatives to foster team collaboration and collective community impact.

 

Future Advocacy Goals

  • Anne Shoemaker LLC is committed to expanding its role in advancing positive change beyond financial contributions and volunteering.
  • Over time, we will develop a structured advocacy strategy focused on supporting social and environmental performance in business and society with a focus on gender equity.
  • This may include partnerships, public education, participation in industry forums, and thought leadership activities.

 

Accountability and Reporting

  • The company will track and report annually on financial contributions, employee volunteer hours, and progress toward advocacy initiatives.
  • Leadership is responsible for reviewing this policy on a biennial basis and making updates to reflect evolving community needs, stakeholder expectations, and business priorities.

 

    Code of Conduct & Ethics

    Objectives 

    At Anne Shoemaker & Associates, we drive client success with a greater social purpose lens. Protecting the interests of our stakeholders is a fundamental objective, and we set a high standard of ethical conduct in all that we do. 

     

    This Code of Conduct and Ethics outlines the behaviours and practices that reflect who we are as a purpose-driven, B Corp–aligned consultancy. It serves as a guide for the minimum standards we expect from ourselves, our collaborators, and our partners. 

     

    While not exhaustive, this Code provides a clear framework to help us act with integrity, inclusivity, and accountability as we empower bold leaders to transform business into a regenerative force for people and planet. 

    Who this applies to 

    This Code applies to everyone who works with or represents Anne Shoemaker & Associates in any form, including employees, contractors, associates, volunteers, and agency workers. 

     

    We also expect our suppliers, clients, and strategic partners to be familiar with and adhere to these standards when working with or on behalf of Anne Shoemaker & Associates. 

    Guiding Values 

    Our work and decisions are guided by the following values:  

    • Integrity and Transparency: We act honestly and openly, ensuring trust is the foundation of every relationship.  
    • Respect and Dignity: We treat every person with fairness, compassion, and professionalism.  
    • Collaboration and Equity: We create space for diverse voices and ensure opportunities are accessible and inclusive.  
    • Purpose and Regeneration: We make decisions that strengthen people, communities, and the natural environment. 

     

    Compliance with the Code 

    Everyone covered by this Code is expected to read, understand, and comply with its contents. 

     

    If there is any doubt about what is expected, individuals are encouraged to ask questions or raise concerns. There are no “wrong” questions. 

     

    Breaches of this Code – including unethical, illegal, or dishonest conduct – will be taken seriously. Corrective actions may include ending a contract or working relationship. With suppliers and partners, failure to act consistently with this Code may result in a review and potential termination of the relationship. 

     

    Ethical Conduct 

    Compliance with all laws 

    Anne Shoemaker & Associates and its representatives will not engage in any form of illegal activity. Anyone who feels they may be in a legally or ethically compromised position must remove themselves from the situation and immediately raise the concern with leadership. 

    Conflicts of Interest 

    We avoid situations where personal, financial, or professional interests could interfere with our judgment, integrity, or responsibilities. Any potential conflict of interest must be disclosed promptly. 

    Confidentiality and Data Protection 

    We respect the confidentiality of all clients, collaborators, and stakeholders. Sensitive information will only be shared when authorised and necessary, and always handled with the highest level of care. 

    Fair and equitable relationships 

    Anne Shoemaker & Associates actively encourages equity, diversity, and inclusion across its networks, relationships, and operations. We openly stand against all forms of racism, oppression, and systemic inequities. 

    We are committed to continuous learning, recognising our own biases, and reorienting them as we listen to and learn from underrepresented and marginalised groups. 

    Workplace respect, safety and well-being 

    We are committed to a healthy work environment built on mutual respect and professional conduct. Discrimination, harassment, or violence of any kind will not be tolerated. 

    Harassment and violence are defined as any action, conduct, or comment, including of a sexual nature that can reasonably be expected to cause offence, humiliation, or physical or psychological harm. 

    Anyone who experiences or witnesses’ discrimination, harassment, or violence is strongly encouraged to speak up, whether by addressing the situation directly (if safe and appropriate) or by reporting it to leadership. Reports will be handled confidentially, with no fear of retaliation. 

    Whistleblowing and Reporting 

    We encourage anyone to raise concerns about unethical or inappropriate conduct without fear of negative consequences. Concerns can be raised confidentially with us at info@anneshoemaker.com and will be reviewed promptly and fairly

     

    Local Hiring Policy

    We prioritize hiring local talent whenever possible. Our commitment is to support our community and contribute to the local economy by considering candidates from the surrounding area.

     

    However, we acknowledge that it may not always be feasible to hire locally due to specific job requirements, skills needed, or other circumstances. In such cases, we will expand our search to ensure we find the best candidate for the position.

     

    Human Rights Policy

    Our company is committed to upholding and promoting human rights. We:

    1. Prohibit any form of modern slavery, including forced labor and human trafficking.
    2. Ensure fair labor practices, including reasonable working hours and fair compensation.
    3. Respect the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining.
    4. Maintain a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
    5. Prohibit child labor and adhere to minimum age requirements for employment.
    6. Treat all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background.
    7. Conduct due diligence to identify and address any human rights risks in our operations.
    8. Expect our suppliers and business partners to uphold these same principles.
    9. Provide a confidential mechanism for reporting human rights concerns.
    10. Regularly review and improve our human rights practices.

    We are committed to conducting our business in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all people.

    Data Protection & Privacy Policy

    Purpose and Scope

    Anne Shoemaker & Associates has a policy of protecting the rights and privacy of employees, individuals, voluntary staff, contractors, and partner organizations to carry out our work according to the applicable data protection law. Any breach of the applicable law or the company’s data protection policy is considered an offense, in which event disciplinary procedures will apply. It is our policy to comply with all applicable privacy and data protection laws.

     

    Collection Limitation, Use and Disclosure of Personal Information

     

    We only collect information needed for a specific purpose and will not exceed the purpose for which it is collected. We will ensure that appropriate technical and organizational measures shall apply against unauthorized or unlawful processing of personal data and against accidental loss or destruction of data.

     

    Information collected shall be relevant, accurate, and, where necessary, kept up to date.

     

    We will not keep any information for longer than is necessary.

     

    We will not disclose any personal information in a manner inconsistent with the purposes for which it was originally collected unless the individual has subsequently consented to the new use of their personal information.

     

    Personal information will not be used for direct marketing purposes without giving the individual an opportunity to opt-out.

     

    Management of Personal Information, Accountability and Enforcement

     

    We will take all feasible steps to ensure that personal information is suitable for its intended use, complete, and, where necessary, kept up to date.

     

    We will ensure all practical measures are taken to protect an individual’s and the organization’s personal information from loss, misuse, unauthorized access or disclosure, alteration or destruction.

     

    We will not keep any information for longer than is necessary.

     

    We will assign responsibility to individuals within the company for compliance with laws and related policies and they will be accountable as well.

     

    We will provide internal controls for verifying compliance with laws and related policies and procedures.

     

    We will design a procedure for investigating and resolving problems associated with data protection and communicate this process to the individuals concerned.

     

     

    Our Computer and E-mail Security

     

    • Only authorized personnel can access laptop or computer systems.
    • All Windows/Mac Operating Systems receive automatic updates and installation of firewalls and antivirus software.
    • E-mail content is encrypted, or password protected.
    • E-mail will be sent without revealing recipients’ addresses to others. Email addresses will remain under Bcc: (blind carbon copy) when e-mail is sent to group
    • We will make sure we shred all sensitive waste and ensure the security of the workplace.
    • We will use strong passwords of at least 8 digits, including upper and lower case, and we will avoid leaving display screens unattended.

     

    Measure for Staff Training and Security

     

    We will ensure that we:

     

    • Develop awareness about the Data Protection Policy so that staff knows exactly what we expect from them.
    • Allocate clear roles and responsibilities about data handling, recording and housekeeping as well as the locking and security of relevant allocated storage spaces. 
    • Know about advanced technologies and employees’ expected exposure to data protection.

     

    Commitment to Our Local Community

    We are committed to prioritizing the procurement of core products from independent suppliers in the Greensboro, NC area. 

     

    At Anne Shoemaker & Associates, we recognize the importance of supporting our local economy and fostering sustainable business practices. As such, we pledge to source at least 50% of our non-labor expenses from independent suppliers in Greensboro. This initiative is not only a step towards enhancing our community relationships but also aligns with our broader corporate social responsibility objectives. 

     

    We believe that by partnering with local businesses, we can cultivate a stronger network of suppliers, reduce our carbon footprint, and contribute to the economic vitality of Greensboro. We are committed to working collaboratively with independent suppliers to identify products and services that meet our quality and operational standards. 

     

    As we move forward with this commitment, we fully intend to engage with local suppliers and explore opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships. We value the innovative spirit and unique offerings that independent businesses bring to our community and look forward to contributing to their success as our own. 

     

    We are eager to work with local suppliers to enhance our product offerings while supporting the Greensboro community.

     

    We define “local” by focusing our operations within North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad region, ensuring our economic impact is felt locally. While we are headquartered in Greensboro, we emphasize the importance of local cultural ties, which may extend our reach beyond the region to include those who have contributed to our community’s rich history.

     

    We focus on building strong relationships with customers based on trust and personalized service. Our goal is to create meaningful connections with our Greensboro community through tailored services that reflect the unique needs and preferences of our neighbors.

    We support local initiatives and organizations by donating time, talent, and treasure to organizations that support Greensboro, such as Women2Women, an initiative of the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro. As a community-driven business, we allocate a portion of our profits to local charities and schools, reinforcing our commitment to improving the quality of life in the Piedmont Triad region.

     

    We partner with local professionals to source services that meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and professionalism, demonstrating our dedication to the local economy and sustainability. We employ local residents and prioritize partnerships with businesses that are physically located in the Piedmont Triad to bolster the community economy and ensure our workforce reflects the diversity and creativity of Greensboro.

    We believe in a sustainable future for Greensboro; we support events and initiatives that protect our natural resources and implement sustainable practices that resonate with community values, such as reducing waste and sourcing materials locally.

     

     
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